Canada-Israel energy, science fund established

TORONTO — A joint Canada-Israel Energy Science and Technology Fund has been created, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources Joe Oliver and Israel’s Minister of Energy and Water Resources Uzi Landau announced Oct. 29.

Under the accord that established the fund, the Canadian and Israeli governments will pursue further co-operation to advance shared energy interests.

The fund will be supported by a $5-million contribution from Canada over the next three years and by Israeli funds on a project-by-project basis.

“This new scientific initiative will create jobs and strengthen the economies of both our countries through greater energy collaboration,” Oliver said Oct. 29. “Today’s announcement underscores the important strategic relationship between our two countries.”

Landau added: “In the endeavour to develop Israel’s natural resources, we find in Canada a natural partner to co-operate with and together look for ways to maximize our capabilities.”